Northern
EUROPE Winter Nov 2016 - Mar 2017
Svalbard Islands
@ North Pole +
TRAVEL JOURNAL
Norway
Denmark •Finland • Iceland • Svalbard Island • Sweden • United Kingdom EU Holidays | Central Europe 3
ABOUT EU HOLIDAYS MISSION • Delighting every travel experience
VISION • Be Travellers’ FIRST choice
VALUES 1. Deliver what we promise 2. Serve customers passionately 3. Do what we do, best 4. Make work fun 5. Care for employees 6. Stay as one big family as we grow 7. Be a good business partner 8. Be socially responsible
PROGRESS AND MILESTONES EU Holidays was founded by a group of experienced directors passionate about their work in the travel industry. They wanted to do something new that could better serve the travel needs of consumers, which is the main driving force behind the establishment of our travel agency. Within five years of business operations, we have expanded EU Holidays and opened up three other subsidiary offices to focus on the various needs of our customers. The EU MICE office was set up in 2013 to cater for corporate travel with a focus on corporate meetings, conventions and events. In that same year, EU Asia was launched to cater for customers who are interested in travelling within Asia. In the following year, we opened up EU Vacations to serve the Malaysian market. In
doing so, EU Holidays strives to constantly improve our products and services so that we can better serve our customers. Despite being a young company, EU Holidays has gained significant recognition from both customers and industry professionals. Founded in late 2010, EU Holidays was voted Top MasterCard Supporter in NATAS Travel for four consecutive years since 2012. Since then, EU Holidays was named the ‘Best Travel Agency for Europe and USA Tours’ as voted by readers of ESCAPE! Magazine. After just two years in the business, EU Holidays was presented with two valuable awards – the Asia Excellence Award 2013 and the Singapore Excellence Award 2013. In 2014, we received the Singapore Quality Brands 2014 award and the Weekender Travellers’ Choice Award as No. 1 for Europe and USA tours, as voted by readers. We continued to be awarded for the next three years by Weekender and held our position as the top travel agency in Singapore. From Tripzillia.sg - Singapore’s No.1 Travel Portal – EU Holidays also acquired excellence awards in “Best for Europe 2015” and “Best for USA 2015”. The coveted award recognises the most outstanding travel companies for their professionalism and experience in the travel industry. EU Holidays Pte Ltd has recently received the prestigious Singapore Trusted Quality Brand 2015 award from the Singapore Enrich Group. In addition, the travel agency has gone through the year-long Customer- Centric Initiative (CCI) program and successfully attained the Singapore Service Class certification under the Ministry of Trade and Industry agency, SPRING Singapore. The agency certifies EU Holidays with the niche Business Excellence (BE) standard for service.
ITINERARIES
6 8
CONTENTS
8D5N Finland Winter Highlight EFN08W
10D7N Winter Norway Sweden Finland Lapland + Sampo Ice Breaker Cruise ENIBCW
10 14 18 22 26 30
10D7N Winter Adventure in Finland + Norway King Crab Safari EFN10W
10D7N Aurora Chasing in Norway ENTOSW
9D6N North Pole Svalbard Island ENSVBW
10D7N Iceland Aurora & Adventure ENICEW
10D7N Scenic Winter Iceland ENSWIW
10D7N Wonderful England ENENGW
FEATURES
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13
8
Lapland in Winter Explore the mythical winter wonderland of Lapland. This northernmost region offers impressive views of the vast snowclad wilderness.
Northern Lights Discover the most magical natural phenomenon on Earth. Be enthralled by the Northern Lights as these vibrant hues of blues and greens dance across the sky.
PUBLISHING CONSULTANT Managing Publisher General Manager Marketing Executive Writers Creative Director
Cecilia Woo Lilian Quek Melisah Roslan Angelia TK, Nina Gee, Sarah Sathyamoorthi Tommy Hong
18
23
EU Holidays Travel Journals are published by WWM PTE LTD for EU Holidays. Cover image Š123RF. Standing and walking stick figure image, cruise vectors and maps used in this brochure are derived from originals designed by Freepik. No part of this publicaiton is to be reproduced, stored, transmitted, digitally or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher. The information contained herein is accurate at time of printing. Changes may have occurred since this magazine went to print. The publisher will not be held liable for any damages, loss, injury or inconvenience, arising in connection with the contents of the brochure.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 1
Extra Miles, Extra Smiles KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Our staff members are armed with vast travel knowledge and invaluable experience so as to assist our customers by giving the best advice to suit their needs. The company equips all staff with top quality and comprehensive in-house training, on-job training, and external courses lead by professionals in the field. These courses concentrate on providing our staff with the knowledge of giving the best travel experience in Europe and USA. This is an essential aspect of EU Holidays as we aim to give each and every customer an unforgettable holiday.
PASSION & LOVE
When it comes to travel, there is nobody more passionate and enthusiastic than the staff at EU Holidays. Our employee’s love and dedication for their jobs drive them to deliver quality services. They are trained to be caring and attentive to every detail of what the customer desires, providing the best support that caters to their individual needs.
SNOWMOBILE SAFARI ON SVALBARD ISLAND 2 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
DIVERSE CHOICES & OPTIONS
EU Holidays is well-known for our ability to design different types of itinerary to cater to different clienteles. Each itinerary is specially personalised to fit every customer’s needs, wants and interests. The option to extend your stay can even be arranged for your itinerary. New itineraries are also launched on a regular basis because we believe in creating an original and exclusive experience for our customers. EU Holidays takes special effort to craft a wide variety of unique itineraries that customers can choose from. The range of itineraries vary from premium to cost saving, active to relaxing tours, and intensive coverage or country focus packages. We also work directly with our partners to provide our customers with special privileges and additional perks for their trips.
INNOVATING TRENDSETTERS
EXCELLENT QUALITY MADE AFFORDABLE
REPUTATION & AWARD WINNING
EU Holidays has always strived to stay ahead of the latest trends, especially for travel and technology. Our company was the first travel agency to introduce exclusive tours to the Norway Arctic Circle, and brought about the popular trend of travelling to Finland. In order to provide our customers with unforgettable experiences when travelling with EU Holidays, we make the effort to reach out to organizations and companies overseas to obtain the best arrangements for activities and accommodations for our tour packages. For our Northern Europe tours, we have specially arranged for customers to stay in the newly launched and more spacious glass igloos in Finland. We are also the sole distributing partner for exclusive sledging activities on Mt. Bussalp for our Switzerland tours.
Quality should not be compromised for affordability. That is why here at EU Holidays, we believe in having the best of both worlds. Our tour packages are customised to be the best value for your money. Offered at an attractive rate, our packages are packed with 4-5 star hotel stays, scrumptious meals, and an experience of a last time. EU Holidays is the only agency that offers you a night’s stay in a 5-star Hilton hotel on Venice islands as well as a 5-star Heritage hotel for your accommodation in Interlaken.
EU Holidays has the prestigious honour of receiving many awards such as the Asia Excellence Award 2013 and the Singapore Excellence Award 2013. Both ESCAPE! and Weekender travel magazines have also awarded EU Holidays as the No. 1 Reader’s Choice for Europe and USA tours. Our company has been recognised for our outstanding service, and also earned us a strong following of loyal customers. EU holidays won the TripZilla excellence awards for “Best for Europe 2015” and “Best for USA 2015” and has recently received the prestigious Singapore Trusted Quality Brand 2015 award. In addition, the travel agency has gone through the Customer-Centric Initiative (CCI) program and has attended Singapore Service Class certification under SPRING Singapore. The agency certifies EU Holidays with the niche Business Excellence (BE) standard for service.
We’ll do it for you! EU Holidays | Northern Europe 3
FEATURE
Lapland in Winter
There’s just something about this mythical winter wonderland that captivates our heart, spirit and soul
Y
ou’ve probably heard rumours about this magical place where Santa Claus exists and ethereal, almost otherworldly light performances dance through the skies each winter night. It is none other than Lapland – the largest and northernmost region of Finland that covers almost a third of the total land area of Finland but houses only 3% of its total population. This means that the further north you travel, you will find a vast expanse of land and space, coniferous forests and rising fells in every direction. Explore the untouched wilderness as you trudge in the snow along with wandering herds of reindeer, and enjoy the peace and solitude of nature’s silence, marred only by the sounds of your own breathing and your boots chomping in the snow. Shrouded in mystery, myths and folklore, Lapland is also home
4 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
to the Sámi tribe – the only indigeneous people of the European Union. The Sámi population is approximately 9000 strong, and they are governed by an autonomous parliament of Inari, Finland, so as to preserve the endangered language and culture. The Sámi people also possess close connections to the land they live on, stemming from an ancient Sámi mythology that every living and non-living being has a soul of its own and that they all carry knowledge within. Another Sámi fable also tells of the inception of the renowned Northern Lights; how the Fox swept across the night sky and left behind a spectacular glow for the people of the North to see. If you’ve always dreamed of meeting Santa Claus ever since you were a child, here’s your chance. Located right in the heart of
HUSKY SAFARI
A REINDEER LAYING DOWN SLEEPING IN THE SNOW
PHOTOS: ©123RF
SNOW COVERED TREES ON FINLAND LAPLAND
Lapland, the capital of Rovaniemi, is the popular Santa Village where you’ll not only get to meet Santa Claus and maybe catch a glimpse or two of his busy elves, you will also get to have a photo taken with him as a memorable souvenir – and show everyone that Santa Claus does exist! Follow the trail of tales and secrets as you discover more about Santa’s work, hobbies and way of life through various memorabilia found throughout the village. A myriad of other exciting activities awaits in Lapland; embark on a chase to witness the magical Northern Lights, race your friends and family on snowmobiles, or go on a reindeer sleigh ride or husky sled ride – one of the best ways to see the Arctic wilderness. Indeed, Lapland is an enticing place bound to capture your heart and leave you longing to come back again.
PEOPLE AROUND SAMPO
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 5
ECONOMY
8D5N
FINLAND WINTER HIGHLIGHT A fascinating trip to Finland brings you endless fun and excitement that will make you forget about the Arctic cold. TOUR CODE: EFN08W
EXCLUSIVE
HIGHLIGHTS
Overnight stay in a Glass Igloo
FINLAND
Arctic Circ le
Meal Plan 5 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners
Rovaniemi 4
Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 4
FINLAND
1
Helsinki
6 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
ROVANIEMI • Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) • Santa Claus Village • Ranua Wildlife Park • Glass Igloo • Snowmobile Safari • Husky Sledge Driving • Reindeer Ride
4
HOTELS
HELSINKI Sokos Hotel ROVANIEMI Scandic Rovaniemi** *Note: Hotels are subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list. **Hotel might be upgraded to Ski Resort Hotel. Subject to availability.
PHOTO: 123RF/LAPLAND SAFARI
DELICACIES
HELSINKI • Senate Square • White Cathedral • Sibelius Monument • Temppeliaukio Church
Arctic animals. Thereafter, get set for a night of wonder as we make arrangements for you to stay in a comfortable and unique Glass Igloo for tonight’s accommodation. Be mesmerized by the clear starry skies as you cuddle up in the warm, toasty bed, and admire the unmarred beauty of the surrounding snowy landscapes. DAY 6
GLASS IGLOO → ROVANIEMI
SANTA CLAUS’ VILLAGE DAY 1
SINGAPORE → HELSINKI
Meals on Board Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to the vibrant seaside city of Helsinki, capital of Finland. DAY 2
HELSINKI
Meals on Board Kick off the day with a sightseeing tour around the alluring city. First up, drive past the bustling Market Square and absorb its scents, sounds and atmosphere – a great way to perk up your mood instantly. Then, drop by the Senate Square for a unique and cohesive spread of Neoclassical architecture, where you can take in the sights of the Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the National Library of Finland and the main building of the University of Helsinki all in one place. Continue on to the Sibelius Monument, a structure resembling organ pipes that is dedicated to world famous composer Jean Sibelius. Last but not least, visit the Temppeliaukio Church, where the interior walls are created naturally by rock, giving rise to its nickname ‘Rock Church’.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) chase as you move around on snowmobiles through the dark landscape. If Lady Luck is on our side, you will be able to witness Earth’s most magnificent and colourful lights show – a once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget. Snacks and hot drinks will also be provided to ensure your comfort throughout the long night. *Note: The appearance of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed as it is a naturally occuring phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions. Only two persons to each snowmobile, and the driver must be 18 years old and above with a valid driving license.
ROVANIEMI → HELSINKI → SINGAPORE
DAY 4
We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip.
ROVANIEMI
Breakfast, Dinner Your day of adventure begins with a visit to a husky dog farm, where you will be greeted with the sight of these friendly and enthusiastic dogs. Discover more about these amazing huskies as well as life on the farm, before taking off on a husky safari where they bring you racing through the layers of snow. DAY 5
DAY 3
HELSINKI → ROVANIEMI
Breakfast, Dinner Fulfil your childhood dreams as we board a domestic flight that will take you to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus and land of fairytales. After dinner, there may also be a chance to witness the amazing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) if luck is on our side. Embark on a thrilling
Breakfast Journey to Santa Claus Village, where you can peruse through the numerous souvenir shops and send a postcard from the Santa’s Main Post Office to receive a special Arctic Circle stamp. You will also be awarded with an Arctic Circle Crossing Certificate as proof of your journey across the Arctic Circle. On top of that, meet Santa Claus in the Christmas House of the Santa Claus Holiday Village and receive a lasting memory of the meeting in the form of a high quality photo. Last but not least, embark on an unforgettable reindeer sleigh ride and grab the opportunity to earn your very own reindeer driving license.
ROVANIEMI → RANUA → GLASS IGLOO
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Visit the Ranua Wildlife Park, which consists of approximately 50 wild animal species and 200 individuals. Follow a local guide as he leads you around to see bears, reindeers, wolves, gluttons, lynxes, moose, birds and Finland polar bears up close and personal, and learn more about these Nordic and
DAY 7
Breakfast Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home. DAY 8
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE
Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Ice Fishing: €50 Tipping Guideline: (based on 8D5N) • €45 per person NOTE: • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances. • Activities are subject to weather conditions. • During major events and festivals, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 7
PREMIUM
10D7N
WINTER NORWAY SWEDEN FINLAND LAPLAND + SAMPO ICE BREAKER CRUISE Indulge in a myriad of Arctic activities that will provide you with an unforgettable experience when you explore this winter wonderland. TOUR CODE: ENIBCW
EXCLUSIVE
DELICACIES
Visit Snow Castle Sampo Icebreaker Cruise
Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners
1
Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by cruise Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2
1
Arctic Circle
Lulea
SWEDEN NORWAY Oslo
1
Stockholm
1
Kirkenes
Saariselkä
1
2
Rovaniemi Kemi
FINLAND
HIGHLIGHTS FINLAND
KEMI • SAMPO Icebreaker Cruise • Snow Castle • Husky Safari
Note: SnowCastle, Husky Safari and Sampo cruise subject to weather condition
ROVANIEMI • Santa Claus Village • Reindeer Ride SAARISELKÄ • Northernmost Ski resort in Finland
NORWAY
KIRKENES • King Crab Safari
4
HOTELS
OSLO Radisson Blu Hotel, Oslo Alna KIRKENES Thon Hotel SAARISELKÄ Holiday Club ROVANIEMI Scandic Hotel KEMI Cumulus hotel STOCKHOLM Scandic Klara **Note: Hotels are subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.
8 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
DAY 1
SINGAPORE → OSLO Meals on Board
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for Oslo, the capital of Norway. DAY 2
OSLO Meals on Board
Upon arrival, spend the day at your leisure. If there is time, you may wish to join an optional sightseeing tour of Oslo before you tuck in for the night. DAY 3
OSLO → KIRKENES Breakfast
Board a domestic flight to Kirkenes, a small nondescript town with plenty to see and do. Admire the gorgeous scenery featuring snow-capped mountains and crystal-blue fjords, and if luck is on your side, you may even be able to witness the enthralling Northern Lights. In the afternoon, embark on a phenomenal King Crab Safari experience, where you will get to catch the Arctic King Crab (metaphorically, not literally) and learn how to cook and eat these huge creatures that can weigh up to 15 kilograms. Depending on the weather conditions, you may head out to the frozen fjord by a snowmobile sleigh and try to catch a king crab. Indulge in a hearty seafood meal and savour the sweet freshness of the king crab as you watch a multimedia presentation by a king crab specialist. Note: King Crab Safari is depended on weather conditions. You may use a boat to the fjord instead of a snowmobile. The appearance of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed as it is a naturally occurring phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions.
visit to Santa Claus Village where you can peruse through the numerous souvenir shops and send a postcard from the Santa’s Main Post Office to receive a special Arctic Circle stamp. You will also be awarded with an Arctic Circle Crossing Certificate as proof of your journey across the Arctic Circle. On top of that, meet Santa Claus in the Christmas House of the Santa Claus Holiday Village and receive a lasting memory of the meeting in the form of a high quality photo. Last but not least, embark on an unforgettable reindeer sleigh ride and grab the opportunity to earn your very own reindeer driving license. DAY 6
ROVANIEMI → KEMI
Breakfast, Dinner
Depart to Kemi and experience the complete silence of the arctic nature around you. Ride a Husky sledge through the untouchable winty woods. During the break, listen to the musher’s stories of the huskies, their life and training. The way to the Husky Farm goes through the beautiful countryside and you will get a glismpse of the locallife and nature. In the afternoon, we will visit the Snow Castle, walk through the snowy gates and admire the arctitecture, ice carvings and sculptures. Then explore the coziness of the beautiful rooms in the Snow Hotel – you can even lay down in one of the beds and imagine, how it would actually feel like to sleep in here! Finally, your tour ends in Snow Restaurant.
DAY 4
DAY 7
Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast, Dinner
Travel to Finland and stay one night in Saariselkä, one of the northernmost ski resort of Finland. Be mesmerised by the clear starry skies as you cuddle up in the warm, toasty bed, and admire the unmarred beauty of the surrounding snowy landscapes.
Transfer to the port and board the Icebreaker Sampo, the former icebreaker for the Finnish government. Enjoy the unique cruise experience on the Gulf of Bothnia. The combination of the majestic steel, ice fields, open sea, guided tour of the vessel and an arctic swim in survival suits will definitely be an experience you will never forget.
KIRKENES → SAARISELKÄ
KEMI
DAY5
SAARISELKÄ → ROVANIEMI Breakfast, Dinner
Fulfil your childhood dreams as we depart for Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus and land of fairytales. Pay a
DAY 8
KEMI → LULEÅ →STOCKHOLM Breakfast, Dinner
Journey across the border to Luleå, one of the northernmost urban area in Sweden.
SAMPO ICEBREAKER, SWIMMERS
Board a domestic flight to Stockholm, capital of Sweden. DAY 9
STOCKHOLM → SINGAPORE Breakfast
Kick off the day with a tour of Stockholm, which will first bring you to City Hall. The three crowns perched atop the 106-metre tall tower forms a silhouette that is instantly recognisable within the city, and this romantic structure also hosts the prestigious Nobel Prize banquets in its Blue and Golden Halls, with the latter featuring 18 million gold mosaic tiles. Continue on to the old town to view the magnificent structures of the Cathedral and the Royal Palace. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight back home. Note: Should the main building of Stockholm City Hall be closed for conference. We will make a brief stop to take a photo of the exterior part of the building. DAY 10
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your vacation with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip. Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Optional sightseeing tour of Oslo: €69 Tipping Guideline: (based on 10D7N) • €59 per person NOTE: • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances. • Activities are subject to weather conditions. • During major events and festivals, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 9
PREMIUM
10D7N
WINTER ADVENTURE IN FINLAND + NORWAY KING CRAB SAFARI Indulge in a myriad of Arctic activities that brings out the best of this winter wonderland – go on a reindeer sleigh ride, sleep in a glass igloo and chase the northern lights on swift snowmobiles. TOUR CODE: EFN10W
EXCLUSIVE
DELICACIES
HIGHLIGHTS
Overnight stay in a Glass Igloo
Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 5 Dinners
FINLAND
Kirkenes 1
Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by cruise Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2
Ivalo Saariselkä
2
Arctic Circle 2
Rovaniemi
NORWAY
Ranua
FINLAND Helsinki 2
KIRKENES • King Crab Safari
4
HOTELS
HELSINKI Original Sokos Hotel Presidentti ROVANIEMI Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus SAARISELKÄ Santa’s Hotel Tunturi KIRKENES Thon Hotel Kirkenes **Note: Hotels are subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.
10 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
PHOTO: 123RF/MCH67
SWEDEN
NORWAY
HELSINKI • Senate Square • White Cathedral • Sibelius Monument • Temppeliaukio Church ROVANIEMI • Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) • Santa Claus Village • Ranua Wildlife Park • Reindeer Ride SAARISELKÄ • Snowmobile Aurora Hunting • Husky Safari • Overnight Stay in a Glass Igloo
DAY 1
SINGAPORE → HELSINKI
Meals on Board Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and take-off to the vibrant seaside city of Helsinki, capital of Finland. DAY 2
HELSINKI
Meals on Board Once you arrive, meet up with a local city guide for a sightseeing tour around the alluring city. Drive past the bustling Market Square and absorb its scents, sounds and atmosphere, then drop by the Senate Square for a unique and cohesive spread of neoclassical architecture, where you can take in the sights of the Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the National Library of Finland and the main building of the University of Helsinki all in one place. Continue on to the Sibelius Monument, a structure resembling organ pipes that is dedicated to world famous composer Jean Sibelius. Last but not least, visit the Temppeliaukio Church, where the interior walls are created naturally by rock, giving rise to its nickname as the ‘Rock Church’. DAY 3
HELSINKI
Breakfast Enjoy the day free at leisure to explore Helsinki on your own, where there’s plenty to do and see. You may wish to take up an
optional excursion to Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, via ferry for the rich cultural scene and the stunning medieval and historical structures. DAY 4
HELSINKI → IVALO → KIRKENES
Breakfast, Dinner Board a domestic flight to Ivalo, a small village in the municipality of Inari in Finland that is home to the northernmost airport in Finland and the whole of Europe. Enjoy a scenic drive along Lake Inari before you cross the border into Norway to reach Kirkenes, a small nondescript town with plenty to see and do. Admire the gorgeous scenery featuring snowcapped mountains and crystal-blue fjords, and if luck is on your side, you may even be able to witness the enthralling Northern Lights. Note: the appearance of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed as it is a naturally occurring phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions. DAY 5
KIRKENES → SAARISELKÄ
Breakfast, Dinner Embark on a phenomenal King Crab Safari experience, where you will get to catch the Arctic King Crab with your own hands (metaphorically, not literally) and learn how to cook and eat these huge creatures that can grow up to 15 kilograms in weight. Depending on the weather conditions, you will head out to the fjord either by snowmobile sledge or boat and try to catch a king crab. Indulge
KING CRAB SAFARI in a hearty seafood meal and savour the sweet freshness of the king crab as you watch a multimedia presentation by a king crab specialist. After which, journey back to Finland and get set for a night of wonder as we make arrangements for you to stay in a comfortable and unique glass igloo for tonight’s accommodation. Be mesmerized by the clear starry skies as you cuddle up in the warm, toasty bed, and admire the unmarred beauty of the surrounding snowy landscapes. DAY 6
SAARISELKÄ
KELO IGLOO
Breakfast, Dinner Your day of adventure begins with a visit to a husky dog farm, where you will be greeted with the sight of these friendly and enthusiastic dogs. Discover more about these amazing huskies as well as life on the farm, before taking off on a husky safari where they bring you racing through the layers of snow. After dinner, embark on a thrilling Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) chase as you move around on snowmobiles through the dark landscape. If Lady Luck is on our side, you will be able to witness Earth’s most magnificent and colourful lights show – a once-in-alifetime experience you will never forget. Note: We are unable to guarantee that you will observe the Northern Lights as it is a natural phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions. Only two persons to each snowmobile, and the driver must be 18 years old and above with a valid driving license.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 11
10D7N WINTER ADVENTURE IN FINLAND + NORWAY KING CRAB SAFARI
REINDEER SLEIGH DAY 7
SAARISELKÄ → ROVANIEMI
Breakfast, Dinner Fulfil your childhood dreams as we depart for Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus and land of fairytales. Pay a visit to Santa Claus Village where you can peruse through the numerous souvenir shops and send a postcard from the Santa’s Main Post Office to receive a special Arctic Circle stamp. You will also be awarded with an Arctic Circle Crossing Certificate as proof of your journey across the Arctic Circle. On top of that, meet Santa Claus in the Christmas House of the Santa Claus Holiday Village and receive a lasting memory of the meeting in the form of a high quality photo. Last but not least, embark on an unforgettable reindeer sleigh ride and grab the opportunity to earn your very own reindeer driving license.
12 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
DAY 8
ROVANIEMI → RANUA → ROVANIEMI
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Visit the Ranua Wildlife Park, which consists of approximately 50 wild animal species and 200 individuals. Follow a local guide as he leads you around to see bears, reindeers, wolves, gluttons, lynxes, moose, birds and Finland polar bears up close and personal, and learn more about these Nordic and Arctic animals. Make your way back to Rovaniemi to rest for the night.
DAY 10
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip. Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Tallinn: €150-€180 (seasonal price subject to ferry availability) Tipping Guideline: (based on 10D7N) • €59 per person
DAY 9
ROVANIEMI → HELSINKI → SINGAPORE
Breakfast Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Note: • A minimum group size of 15 passengers is required for a confirmed departure. • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances. • Winter activities are subject to weather conditions. • During major events, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.
FEATURE
Northern Lights
All you need to know about the most magical natural phenomenon on Earth.
PHOTOS: ©123RF
T
he bright dancing lights that you see are collisions between electrically charged particles released from the sun’s atmosphere with the gaseous particles present in the Earth’s atmosphere. The blazing hot temperatures above the surface of the sun causes frequent and volatile collisions between gas molecules, which are thrown from the sun’s atmosphere and released via holes in the magnetic field as the sun rotates. The solar wind then blows them towards the Earth, where most of them are deflected by the strong magnetic field. However, some particles are able to stream into the Earth’s atmosphere at the North and South poles where the magnetic field is significantly weaker, giving rise to the auroras that we see. Auroral displays appear in a variety of colours – shades of red, yellow, green, blue and violet are most common – and they are also indicators of the type of gas particles that are present. The most common yellowish-green hued aurora is produced by oxygen molecules, whereas violet or blue auroras indicate the presence of nitrogen. The rarest of all is the all-red aurora, which is produced by high-altitude oxygen molecules colliding at heights up to 322 kilometres.
The Northern Lights can be seen in the northern or southern hemisphere, in an irregularly shaped oval belt, an approximate radius of 2,500 km from the centre of each magnetic pole. The northern auroral zone extends over northern Scandinavia and the southern tip of Greenland to northern Canada, Alaska and the northern coast of Siberia. The best places to watch the lights are in the north-western parts of Canada and the Norwegian counties of Troms and Finnmark in northern Norway, where occurrence is the highest. However, auroras in the south – also known as ‘Aurora australis’ – are often not visible as they are most concentrated in a ring around Antarctica and the southern Indian Ocean, thus they may only be glimpsed from Tasmania and southern New Zealand out of all populated regions in the southern hemisphere. However, scientists have found out that northern and southern auroras are often mirror-like images that occur at the same time, with corresponding shapes and colours. In reality, the auroras are present all year round, though we are unable to see them when the night sky is fairly light or when the sky is cloudy. Thus, the winter season is the best time for aurora viewing due to
the long periods of darkness (longer nights) and frequency of clear skies. If the auroras are strong enough, you may be able to see them against a twilight sky – a common occurrence in Tromsø, or witness the even rarer ‘day aurora’ in Spitzbergen where darkness falls as early as midday during winter. In northern Norway, the northern lights are visible between the months of September to April, and the best time to watch for them is local midnight.
NORTHERN LIGHTS OVER KIRKJUFELL, ICELAND.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 13
PREMIUM
10D7N
AURORA CHASING IN NORWAY Experience a magical night in your quest to witness the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights – a sight to behold that will leave you breathless in wonder.
REINE, LOFOTEN ISLAND
14 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
PHOTO: 123RF/IAKOV KALININ
TOUR CODE: ENTOSW
HIGHLIGHTS
Tromsø
NORWAY
1
TROMSØ • Aurora Borealis •Aurora Chasing Tour NARVIK • Polar Park • Reindeer Farm LOFOTEN ISLAND • Sea-Eagle Safari • Henningsvær & Reine
Vesterålen 2
3
1
Narvik
Svolvær
NORWAY
DELICACIES Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 4 Dinners
3-4
HOTELS
Oslo
TROMSO Clarion the Edge NARVIK Scandic Narvik SVOLVÆR Scandic Svolvær
DAY 1
*Note: Hotels subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.
SINGAPORE → OSLO
Meals on Board Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for Oslo, the capital of Norway. DAY 2
OSLO → TROMSØ
EXCLUSIVE • Sea Eagle Safari • Hurtigruten cruise
warrant y
Northe r
hts View ing
n
Lig
EXCLUSIVE
Meals on Board, Dinner Board a domestic flight that will take you to Tromsø, the largest urban area in northern Norway. Admire the gorgeous scenery featuring snow-capped mountains and crystal-blue fjords, and if luck is on your side, you may even be able to witness the enthralling Northern Lights. Note: the appearance of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed as it is a naturally occurring phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions. DAY 3
TROMSØ
Breakfast – Scandinavian Fare, Lunch Begin the day with a Tromsø sightseeing tour that will bring you to some of the best attractions in the city. The centre of Tromsø has a rich neo-classical architectural heritage, dotted with both beautiful as well as dilapidated buildings from later periods. Get your hearts ready for the main highlight of this tour – a thrilling Northern Lights chase that is guaranteed to be a once-in-a-lifetime
Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by cruise Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2 3 adventure you will never forget. Witness Earth’s most magnificent and colourful lights show with the expertise of a local guide, who will drive for up to 7 hours to unearth the best location for you to watch the northern lights. Should the northern lights appear, a professional photographer will also be present to assist you in capturing perfect pictures of the captivating phenomenon. Note: We are unable to guarantee that you will observe the Northern Lights as itis a natural phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions, but if we miss the northern lights during the activity, we are willing to arrange for another aurora chase on without additional charge should you wish to give another attempt. DAY 4
TROMSØ → NARVIK
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Go for a leisure drive around the Tromsø region for a view of dramatic snowy landscapes, with the occasional heart-stopping moments as we drive between walls of snow. Then, take a walk on the wild side as we head to Polar Park – the world’s northernmost wildlife park where you can meet bears wolves, lynx, wolverines, polar foxes, moose, red deer, reindeer and muskoxen; get up-close and personal with the wolves in their enclosure and cuddle with the adorable polar foxes. Continue on to Narvik, a harbour town surrounded by stretches of beautiful fjords, mountains and islands.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 15
10D7N AURORA CHASING IN NORWAY
TROMSØ, NORWAY
LOFOTEN ISLANDS
SEA EAGLE SAFARI
DAY 5
DAY 7
DAY 9
Breakfast, Lunch – Sami cuisine, Dinner Depart for Vesterålen, comprising of hundreds of large and small islands to form a stunning natural landscape in the archipelago. The terrain here varies from alpine mountains to gentle hillsides, deep valleys, chalk-white sandy beaches and narrow fjords. Pay a visit to the Reindeer Farm to see Santa’s iconic reindeers, learn more about this uncommon animal as well as the lifestyle and practices of the Sami people that remains deeply entwined with the reindeer. Thereafter, proceed to Svolvær, capital of the Lofoten Islands.
Breakfast Embark on a great nature expedition today as you head out on a Sea Eagle Safari. Speed across the Trollfjord on a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) helmed by an experienced captain, which will take you to the middle of the fjord where the sea eagles dwell. Discover more about these majestic birds of prey and watch them in action at thrillingly close quarters as you throw fish into the sea for them to dive and collect. After the adrenaline rush, enjoy the rest of the day free at leisure till it is time to board the legendary Hurtigruten cruise ship. Note: The min. age of Sea Eagle Safari is 12 and overnight cruise is subject to weather condition.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home.
DAY 6
DAY 8
Breakfast, Dinner Traverse through the islands of Lofoten and delight in the idyllic coastal scenery of Vestfjord along the way. Our first stop is the fishing village of Henningsvær marvel at the vista of impressive mountains surrounded by the clear, blue sea. Drive along the fjord and continue to Reine, located in the southern part of Lofoten and well-konwn as one of the most beautiful village in Norway.
Breakfast on Board Take pleasure in the warm morning sunlight as it filters through your window, and enjoy the beautiful panorama as it enlivens the gorgeous landscapes and surrounding fjords. Spend the rest of your time aboard the cruise at leisure until it arrives at Tromsø in the afternoon. After which, the rest of the day is free for you to do some shopping, or simply wander around and enjoy the charming city.
SVOLVÆR
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SVOLVÆR → HURTIGRUTEN
HURTIGRUTEN → TROMSØ
TROMSØ → OSLO → SINGAPORE
DAY 10
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip. Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Lofoten Viking Museum: €40 • Whale Watching: €120 - €150 (seasonal price subject to weather condition) • Oslo Sightseeing Tour: €69 (for group stay extra night in Oslo only) • Tromsø by helicopter: €210 Tipping Guideline: (based on 10D7N) • €59 per person NOTE: • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances. • Activities are subject to weather conditions. • During major events and festivals, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.
PHOTOS: 123RF/NORTHERN SHOTS TOURS, TOMAS1111
NARVIK → VESTERÅLEN – SVOLVÆR
2015 NORTHERN LIGHT TOUR GROUP PHOTOS
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 17
PREMIUM 9D6N
NORTH POLE SVALBARD ISLANDS Discover the untouched and untamed arctic wilderness. Come face-to-face with the unique and rich wildlife that thrives in this rugged region. TOUR CODE: ENSVBW
SVALBARD ISLANDS
18 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
Arctic Circle
Arctic Circle
75˚N
Longyearbyen 4
SOURCE : ARCTIC PORTAL
Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations Overnight stays
Oslo
DAY 1
SINGAPORE → OSLO Meals on Board
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for Oslo, the capital of Norway DAY 2
OSLO Meals on Board
Upon arrival, spend the day at your leisure. If this is your first time to visiting Norway, consider joining an optional sightseeing tour to explore the city and learn more about the Norwegian history, culture and lifestyle. DAY 3
OSLO → LONGYEARBYEN Breakfast, Lunch, Arctic Lavvo Dinner
Board a domestic flight to Longyearbyen,
2 4
2
the administrative centre of Svalbard Island, as well as the Northernmost settlement with a population of around 2000 and the realm of Polar Bear. Admire the gorgeous scenery featuring snow-capped mountains and crystalblue fjords, and if luck is on your side, you may even be able to witness the enthralling Northern Lights. In the evening, join us for an atmospheric event around the open fire in our Northern Lights camp, a tent set up in the traditional Sami style. Sitting on benches covered by reindeer hides, you will be served a welcome drink, food prepared by the chefs from the renowned Huset restaurant and of course Arctic storytelling provided by friendly and professional local guides. Note: the appearance of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed as it is a naturally occurring phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions.
HIGHLIGHTS NORWAY SVALBARD ISLANDS LONGYEARBYEN • Four nights of chance for Northern Light • Longyearbyen - Northernmost settlement with a population of over 1000 • Arctic Lavvo Evening • Svalbard Museum (entrance included) • Aurora Chasing by Snowmobile (6h activity) • Husky Sledge Safari (4h activity)
DELICACIES Meal Plan 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
3-4
HOTELS
LONGYEARBYEN Svalbard Hotel OSLO First Hotel Millennium **Note: Hotels are subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations as stated in this list.
POLAR BEAR WITH CUBS AT SVALBARD
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 19
9D6N NORTH POLE SVALBARD ISLANDS LONGYEARBYEN Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meet up with a local city guide to get an overview of Longyearbyen and the surrounding areas. You will be guided through the major local sights and history of Longyearbyen. The tour will bring you close to the coal mines, some research areas, village, church, and the global seed vault which is the world’s largest seed storage. There will be stops along the way to take photographs. Visit Svalbard Museumentrance included, which will feature an exhibition on Svalbard's history and present natural places in Arctic Norway. DAY 5
LONGYEARBYEN Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Aurora Chasing by Snowmobile (6-hour activity) - Join a snowmobile tour and let yourself be captivated by the unique blue light that characterises the polar night. We will hunt for the Northern Lights and visit the Northern Light Camp. Drive through Adventdalen, extending eastward from Longyearbyen and into a river landscape that take you to Tellbreen. The trip will take you to the glacier where you will have a closer look at the ice structures. The rock and ice formed by melting water provides is an impressive view. After walking on the glacier, we will enjoy ourselves in the tent with a candlelight and bonfire. Seated at the table, on benches covered by with reindeer hides, you will be served a hot lunch while the guide recounts fascinating stories from
SNOWMOBILE SAFARI
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Svalbard. After a warm and sumptuous lunch, we will get back on our snowmobiles and head back to Longyearbyen. On the way back, we will stop at a pingo in Adventdalen. This typical polar phenomenon presents itself as a rounded knoll with an ice core. Pingos are formed when pressurised glacial water penetrates holes or cracks in the permafrost.
person. After the activity enjoy hot drinks and biscuits in the Trapper's cabin. For this activity, visitors need not have any previous experience with dog sledging. For the dog sledding activity, your guide will provided you with all necessary safety equipment and necessities, these include thermal suit, boots, gloves, goggles, balaclava and hat; hot drink and biscuits.
Note: Minimum age for the Aurora Chasing by Snowmobile tour and the Husky Sledge Safari tour is 6 years old.
DAY 7
LONGYEARBYEN → OSLO Breakfast
DAY 6
LONGYEARBYEN
Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and spend the day at your leisure.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Husky Sledge Safari (4h activity) - This activity will give you an introduction to dog sledding. The guide will welcome you and provide you with information about the trip. You will be provided with the necessary clothing for the activities. At Trapper's Station there are 90 happy Alaskan Huskies are eager to take you for a ride. You will harness your own dog teams, and will share your sled with one other
DAY 8
OSLO → SINGAPORE Breakfast
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home. DAY 9
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip. Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Aurora Hunting by Snowcat (2.5h activity) : €79 • Oslo Sightseeing Tour: €69
HUSKY SAFARI
Tipping Guideline: (based on 9D6N) • €52 per person
PHOTOS: MARCELA CARDENAS
DAY 4
PHOTOS: JENS HENRIK NYBO
SVALBARD
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 21
PREMIUM 10D7N
ICELAND AURORA & ADVENTURE Traverse the snow-clad landscapes and catch the stunning Northern Lights. Be awestruck by imposing glaciers and majestic mountains that will welcome you at every turn. TOUR CODE: ENICEW
BORGARFJÖRÐUR WEST ICELAND
EXCLUSIVE
DELICACIES
HIGHLIGHTS
• Full local tour escort • 6 nights of chances to see Northern light • Perlan Dinner • Monster truck safari on Glacier • Ice Tunnel/Cave exploration • Icelandic wool outlet store • Northern light academy program • 4 hours Aurora Chasing by bus • Glacial Hiking experience for beginner
Meal Plan
ICELAND
MONSTER TRUCK
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7 Breakfasts,2 Lunches, 5 Dinners
3-4
HOTELS
REYKJAVIK Hotel Natura ICELAND WEST COAST Icelandair Hotel Hamar SELFOSS Hotel Gullfoss ICELAND SOUTH COAST Icelandair Hotel Vik COPENHAGEN Scandic Sydhavnen *Note: Hotels and restaurant subject to final confirmation. Should there be changes, customers will be offered similar accommodations and restaurant.
REYKJAVIK • Perlan (The Pearl) • Hofoi House • Hallgrimskirkja • Blue Lagoon (entrance and tower rental included) WEST ICELAND • Borgarfjörður Saga Valley • Deildartunguhver Hot Spring • Hraunfossar waterfall • Barnafoss waterfall • Village of Húsafell GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR • Thingvellir National Park • Gullfoss (Golden Falls) waterfall • Strokkur geyser SOUTH ICELAND • Kerið volcano crater • Skaftafell National Park • Svartifoss waterfall • Seljalandsfoss waterfall • Sólheimajökull glacier • Skógafoss waterfall • Reynisfjara Beach EAST ICELAND • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon • Kirkjubæjarklaustur
DAY 1
SINGAPORE → COPENHAGEN →REYKJAVIK
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. DAY 2
REYKJAVIK Kick off the day with a Reykjavik city tour, which starts with Perlan (The Pearl) – a fantastic dome-shaped glass building supported by six massive water tanks, with an impressive water feature that runs from the basement into the atrium. Then, visit the beautiful Höfði House and the Hallgrímskirkja church, where you can view the novel exterior of the Lutheran parish church tower along with the statue of Leifur Eiriksson situated at its front. Tonight if luck is on your side, you may even be able to witness the enthralling Northern Lights. Note: the appearance of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed as it is a naturally occurring phenomenon and is subject to weather conditions. DAY 3
REYKJAVIK→WEST ICELAND
Breakfast, Dinner Today we will take bus and an 8-wheel
Golden Circle 1
ICELAND
Hamar
2
Jökulsárlón Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Reykjavík 1
Selfoss Iceland South Coast
Blue Lagoon 2
Vík í Mýrdal drive monster truck to Langjökull glacier, Iceland’s second largest glacier, for a once in a lifetime adventure deep inside one of the world’s largest man made ice caverns. The caverns are composed of an extensive system of tunnels and chambers that stretch close to 300 metres into the solid ice cap towards a breath taking natural ice cave at the heart of the glacier. Making your way
Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations
1
2
inside the glacier you are able to explore various nooks and chambers and see a huge ice crevasse. As you walk further along the tunnel, the ice gets older and its colour gradually changes from white to deep-blue. We also explore Borgarfjörður which is known as the Saga valley because of its many important historical events. We get a chance to visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s
GLACIER HIKE
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 23
10D7N ICELAND AURORA & ADVENTURE
ICE CAVE
most powerful hot spring which produces 180 liters per second of water that is nearly boiling - 97° Celsius. Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls pouring from beneath a wide lava field. Barnafoss – the Children’s falls, is nearby with its own tragic tale. In the evening, attend an Aurora hunting programme which includes a lecture, presentation, films and a professional guided search for the Northern Lights. Equipment such as a flashlight and simple non-slip snow and ice gripper spikes for shoes will be provided for your safety and comfort on this winter expedition.
be able to catch sight of a rainbow arching over the tumbling waters flowing into the deep gorge. Continue on to the nearby geothermal area, a site bubbling with activity and an abundance of hot springs. Here, you will be able to view the lively Strokkur geyser which spouts water 30 metres into the air every 15 minutes. After dinner, join a 4 hours aurora hunting program and take coach to a rural area for clear sky and catch a nice place to observe Northern light.
DAY 4
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Drive along the South coast. The first stop is at the explosion crater called Kerið which is filled with water and resembles an ancient amphitheatre. We continue to Skógafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. In the afternoon we will join a glacier walk. The Sólheimajökull glacier tongue extends from the great Mýrdalsjökull glacier, down to the sandy plains of the Icelandic south coast. The spectacular surroundings are marked by rugged and majestic rock formations thoroughly shaped by the glacier. On this fun, safe and easy to moderate glacier walk you get to explore
WEST ICELAND → GOLDEN CIRCLE →SELFOSS
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Embark on Iceland’s classic sightseeing tour – the Golden Circle – to discover some of the most spectacular scenery and historic sites in Iceland. The first stop will be at Thingvellir National Park, a place of historical significance and geological interest. You can also visit the Althing, an open-air assembly in the park where Iceland’s oldest existing parliament first assembled in 930 AD. Next, admire Iceland’s most popular waterfall, the Gullfoss, and if you’re lucky, you may even
24 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
DAY 5
SELFOSS → ICELAND SOUTH COAST → VÍK Í MÝRDAL
SKOGAFOSS WATERFALL
the wonderland of ice sculptures, water cauldrons, ridges and deep crevasses on the breath-taking Sólheimajökull glacier. While enjoying all the features of the glacier and its spectacular surroundings, you learn more about the behaviour of glaciers and their impact on nature. No technical requirements are needed for the tour as an experienced glacier guide teaches you how to use basic glacier equipment, such as crampons and an ice axe which are provided for glacier walk tours. Duration of this activity is about 3 hours in total, about 90 minutes on the ice and about 30-40 min walk (one-way) from the parking lot to the glacier edge itself. You just need to bring warm clothing, rain gear and hiking boots. Note: Minimum age for the glacier hike is 10 years. DAY 6
VÍK Í MÝRDAL → KIRKJUBÆJARKLAUSTUR → JÖKULSÁRLÓN → VÍK Í MÝRDAL
Breakfast, Dinner Today’s program is all about glaciers, ice and icebergs. A long drive brings us to the small village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs, and we explore the extraordinary site and might see seals
NORTHERN LIGHTS BOAT TOUR ICELAND
swimming in arctic waters. You can walk on the black sandy beach where large icebergs get stranded. In the afternoon we spend time at Europe’s largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe’s largest glacier. DAY 7
VÍK Í MÝRDAL → REYKJAVIK
Breakfast, Dinner From Vík we travel to Reynisfjara, a black lava beach with high bird cliffs and pounding
waves. Further west we reach the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges from the mountain. In the afternoon, proceed to the amazing Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, famous for its healing mineral-rich waters surrounded by jet-black basalt lava. Last but not least, enjoy a farewell dinner at Perlan Panorama restaurant. Note: You will stay near the airport if your flight is scheduled to depart early in the morning. DAY 8
REYKJAVIK → COPENHAGEN
Breakfast Board a domestic flight to Copenhagen. Upon arrival transfer back to hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure DAY 9
COPENHAGEN → SINGAPORE
Breakfast Transfer to airport for your flight home. DAY 10
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip. Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Aurora Hunting by boat: €110 Tipping Guideline: (based on 10D7N) • €59 per person NOTE: • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances. • Activities are subject to weather conditions. • During major events and festivals, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 25
PREMIUM 10D7N
SCENIC WINTER ICELAND
Gaze in awe at the spectacle of nature as you encounter thousandyear-old glaciers, some of Europe’s most magnificent waterfalls and spectacular volcanic craters in the land shaped by ice and fire. TOUR CODE: ENSWIW
JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAKE, ICELAND
DELICACIES
3-4 HOTELS
HIGHLIGHTS
Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 4 Dinners
REYKJAVIK CenterHotel Plaza SELFOSS Hotel Selfoss VÍK Í MÝRDAL Hotel Edda COPENHAGEN Scandic Sydhavnen
ICELAND REYKJAVIK • Perlan (The Pearl) • Hofoi House • Hallgrimskirkja • Blue Lagoon GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR • Thingvellir National Park • Gullfoss (Golden Falls) waterfall • Strokkur geyser
ICELAND Jökulsárlón
Reykjavík
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
3
1
Selfoss Iceland South Coast
Blue Lagoon 2
Vík í Mýrdal
26 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
EAST ICELAND • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon • Kirkjubæjarklaustur
SPECIAL Flight path Traverse by coach Featured destinations
• Full Local Tour Escort
PHOTO: 123RF/36CLICKS
Golden Circle
ICELAND SOUTH COAST • Seljalandsfoss waterfall • Sólheimajökull glacier • Skógafoss waterfall • Reynisfjara Beach • Northern Lights chase
WATERFALL SELJALANDSFOSS, ICELAND DAY 1
SINGAPORE → REYKJAVIK
Meals on Board Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. DAY 2
REYKJAVIK
Meals on Board, Dinner Check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day free at leisure in Reykjavik to recharge and take a breather. DAY 3
PHOTO: 123RF/CONSTANTIN STANCIU
REYKJAVIK → BLUE LAGOON → REYKJAVIK
Breakfast Kick off the day with a Reykjavik city tour, which starts with Perlan (The Pearl) – a fantastic dome-shaped glass building supported by six massive water tanks, with an impressive water feature that runs from the basement into the atrium. Then, visit the beautiful Höfði House and the Hallgrímskirkja church, where you can view the novel exterior of the Lutheran parish church tower along with the statue of Leifur Eiriksson situated at its front. Next, proceed to the amazing Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, famous for its healing mineral-rich waters surrounded by jet-black basalt lava. *Note: Blue Lagoon will temporarily close for renovation from 5 to 21 Jan 2016, and there will be ongoing constructions until 2017.
DAY 4
REYKJAVIK → GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR → SELFOSS
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Embark on Iceland’s classic sightseeing tour – the Golden Circle – to discover some of the most spectacular scenery and historic sites in Iceland. The first stop will be at Thingvellir National Park, a place of historical significance and geological interest. You can also visit the Althing, an open-air assembly in the park where Iceland’s oldest existing parliament first assembled in 930 AD. Next, admire
Iceland’s most popular waterfall, the Gullfoss, and if you’re lucky, you may even be able to catch sight of a rainbow arching over the tumbling waters flowing into the deep gorge. Continue on to the nearby geothermal area, a site bubbling with activity and an abundance of hot springs. Here, you will be able to view the lively Strokkur geyser which spouts water 30 metres into the air every 15 minutes. After dinner, attend a 3-night aurora hunting programme which includes a lecture, presentation, films and a professional guided search for the Northern Lights.
BLUE LAGOON, REYKJAVÍK
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 27
10D7N SCENIC WINTER ICELAND
REYNISFJARA BEACH
Equipment such as a flashlight and simple non-slip snow and ice gripper spikes for shoes will be provided for your safety and comfort on this winter expedition. DAY 5
SELFOSS → ICELAND SOUTH COAST → VÍK Í MÝRDAL
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Enjoy a scenic drive with a view of Iceland’s natural beauty on Route 1 along Iceland’s South Coast. Stop at the unique Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a narrow cascade plunging over a 60-metre high cliff. You may even venture on the footpath leading to the back of the waterfall for a different
perspective and equally breathtaking pictures. Proceed on to the Sólheimajökull glacier for an interesting experience about the different facets of ice. Finally, stroll along the black sandy shores of Reynisfjara Beach and see the magic of nature in the form of its famous basalt columns that stacks up into the shape of a pyramid.
DAY 8
DAY 6
Breakfast Transfer to airport for your flight home.
VÍK Í MÝRDAL → KIRKJUBÆJARKLAUSTUR → JÖKULSÁRLÓN → VÍK Í MÝRDAL
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Drive past the small village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur to arrive in Jökulsárlón, Iceland’s famous glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Enjoy some free time to explore this extraordinary wonder of nature, where you may even be lucky enough to see some seals. You may also wish to join an optional boat excursion to sail among the huge icebergs and get a taste of the 1000-year-old ice, weather permitting. As night falls, treasure your last chance to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights. DAY 7
VÍKÍ MÝRDAL → REYKJAVIK
ICELANDIC HORSE, ICELAND
28 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
Breakfast Drive back to Reykjavik and enjoy the rest of the day free at leisure to do some shopping or sightseeing. Note: You will stay near the airport if your flight is scheduled to depart early in the morning.
REYKJAVIK → COPENHAGEN
Breakfast Board a domestic flight to Copenhagen. Upon arrival transfer back to hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure DAY 9
COPENHAGEN → SINGAPORE
DAY 10
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip. Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Aurora Hunting by boat: €110 Tipping Guideline: (based on 10D7N) • €59 per person NOTE: • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances. • Activities are subject to weather conditions. • During major events and festivals, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.
ECONOMY
10D7N
WONDERFUL ENGLAND Immerse yourself in a British experience and be captivated by iconic structures that exude historic charm and timeless elegance. TOUR CODE: ENENGW
WINTER WILLOW TREE AT THE RIVERSIDE, CAMBRIDGE
3-4
Meal Plan 7 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
CAMBRIDGE Holiday Inn Express Cambridge Duxford YORKSHIRE Holiday Inn Express Bradford LIVERPOOL Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower Hotel SWINDON Premier Inn Swindon West LONDON Hotel Ibis London Wembley
Lake District York 1
2
Liverpool Stratford Upon Avon
Flight path Traverse by coach Traverse by cruise Featured destinations Overnight stays 1 2
ENGLAND Bath
1
Swindon
Stoneheng
30 Northern Europe | EU Holidays
HOTELS
1
Cambridge
2
London
HIGHLIGHTS ENGLAND
CAMBRIDGE • Punting tour YORK • Ancient city walls of York • York Minister LIVERPOOL • St George’s Hall • Anfield Stadium • Liverpool Anglican Cathedral BATH • Bath Abbey • Old Town AMESBURY • Stonehenge LONDON • Trafalgar Square • Whitehall • Downing Street • Houses of Parliament • Big Ben • Westminster Abbey • Buckingham Palace • Hyde Park • Chinatown
PHOTOS: ©123RF
DELICACIES
DAY 1
SINGAPORE → LONDON Meals on Board
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport and depart for the capital city of the United Kingdom – London. DAY 2
LONDON → CAMBRIDGE
Shambles Street, before heading on to Mansion House, and Stonegate and Petergate streets. Gaze in awe at the exquisite masterpiece of the York Minster, an imposing Gothic cathedral that boasts some of the most amazing medieval stained glass windows. Spend your free time exploring the spectacular old town before transferring back to the hotel.
Meals on Board
Once you arrive, continue your journey to Cambridge for your night’s accommodation.
DAY 5
YORKSHIRE → LAKE DISTRICT → LIVERPOOL Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 3
CAMBRIDGE → YORKSHIRE Breakfast, Dinner
Join a charming punting tour on the River Cam which runs through the heart of Cambridge. Enjoy fantastic views of the world famous Cambridge College ‘Backs’ from the comfort of a traditional
Drive along the scenic Lake District and immerse yourself in the gorgeous scenery that stretches out before you. You may wish to go on an optional boat tour on Lake Windermere, a beautiful waterway that is also England’s largest natural lake. before we reach Liverpool. Embark on an orientation tour of the historic maritime
parish church with a striking west façade of angels going up and down stone ladders. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure before heading to Swindon to rest for the night. DAY 7
SWINDON → STONEHENGE → LONDON Breakfast, Dinner
Travel to one of the best known wonders of the world – Stonehenge, and learn more about this mysterious ancient monument and its many rumoured myths and legends. Return to London and end the day with a guided city tour; take in the sights of Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, the Prime Minister’s Office at 10 Downing Street, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. DAY 8
LONDON Breakfast
Enjoy the day free at leisure to wander around the city of London on your own, do some last minute shopping or take in a West End musical show. You may also consider an optional excursion to Windsor Castle or Bicester Village for some outlet shopping. DAY 9
LONDON → SINGAPORE Breakfast
Enjoy the rest of the day free at leisure till it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight home. DAY 10
ARRIVAL IN SINGAPORE
Cambridge Punt. King’s College Chapel, The Wren Library at Trinity College and the Bridge of Sighs, are just some of the famous Cambridge landmarks you can expect to see during this chauffeured punt tour. In the afternoon, drive to Yorkshire for an overnight stay. Note: Punting tours are subject to weather conditions.
city, which brings you to view St. George’s Hall, the famous home of Liverpool Football Club – Anfield Stadium, and the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. DAY 6
LIVERPOOL → STRATFORD -UPON-AVON → BATH → SWINDON Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4
YORKSHIRE Breakfast
The destination for the day is York City, a walled city situated at the confluence of the Rivers Ouse and Foss in North Yorkshire. Tour on foot to visit the
Drive past Stratford-upon-Avon, a Warwickshire country town with charming cobbled streets and renowned for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. After lunch, continue your scenic drive to the ancient city of Bath and enjoy a panoramic view of Bath Abbey, a majestic
We hope you enjoyed your trip with EU Holidays and we look forward to seeing you again for your next trip. Suggested Excursion: Additional activities that complement your holidays will be at your own discretion and is entirely optional. *minimum group size may apply • Windsor Castle: £79 • Bicester Village: £49 • Windermere Boot Tour: £15 Tipping Guideline: (based on 10D7N) • £59 per person NOTE: • The sequence of the itinerary, flight schedules and hotels are subject to change without prior notice in the event of unforeseen circumstances. • Activities are subject to weather conditions. • During major events and festivals, accommodation may be re-located to outside of the city or in another city without prior notice.
EU Holidays | Northern Europe 31
PHOTO: 123RF/FILIP FUXA
YORKMINSTER UK
EXTRA PAMPERING FROM EU HOLIDAYS
EU Holidays Premium Customers can enjoy complimentary access to the Luxurious Premier Lounges at Singapore Changi Airport
Premium customers of EU Holidays can now enjoy complimentary access to the comforts of the three SATS Premier Club lounges found across all three terminals at SIngapore’s Changi Airport. Providing the highest level of comfort and luxury in air travel, each lounge is aesthetically designed with a touch of class and equipped with modern conveniences to serve the evolving needs of our customers.
Highlights of the SATS lounges include: • Free flow of refreshments that include local signature “delights” and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages • Workstations with high-speed Internet connectivity and wireless access • Cable television with a wide variety of programmes, channels and movies. • A wide selection of international
SATS Premier Lounge T1 #031-67, Departure Transit Hall, Level 3 Operation Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
SATS Premier Lounge T2 #036-114, Departure Transit Hall, Level 3 Operation Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
SATS Premier Lounge T3 #03-MS-04, Departure Transit Hall, Level 3 Operation Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
magazines and newspapers. • Private rest booths with state-of-the art massage chairs • Pleasant shower amenities
Tour Booking Terms and Conditions (simplified version) (Please refer to our website www.euholidays.com. sg/tnc for the full version of it or request a print copy from our Customer Service Executive)* You and your traveling companions are deemed to have read, understood and accepted the following Terms and Conditions. EU Holidays Pte Ltd shall be referred to as “the Company” in the following: 1. RESERVATION, DEPOSIT & FULL PAYMENT 1.1 If your minimum deposit is less than the required amount, kindly top up the difference within the next two (2) days. Tour Type All Group Tour Packages (Except Cruise) Cruise & special departure Group Tour Packages Free & Easy Packages Tour organised by third (3rd) parties (e.g. luxury cruise, overseas land operator, airline etc)
Deposit required per person $1,000 $2,000 80% of total tour fare Amount per Terms & Conditions stipulated by principal suppliers
1.2 Payment of deposit does not constitute confirmation of the tour. All group tours are subject to a minimum group size (as determined by the Company) in order for the confirmation to be effected and for the departure to be finalised. 1.3 Full payment is required no later than twenty one (21) days prior to departure. In case of tours in peak season, full payment must be made one month before departure. If full payment is not received by the stipulated deadline, the Company reserves the right to forfeit the deposit and cancel the reservation. In such an event, the cancellation fee as stated in Section 2 is payable by the Customer. 1.4 By making deposit and balance payment, it is deemed that you have read, understood and accepted the Tour Booking Terms and Conditions in the booking form. 1.5 The Company reserves the right to request for a top-up on initial deposit for immediate issuance of air tickets, to avoid incurring additional surcharges. 2. CANCELLATION BY THE CUSTOMER 2.1 Cancellation of booking must be made in writing or in person to avoid any misunderstanding. 2.2 The following cancellation fees applied once any group tour package booking is made: No. of days between departure and receipt of cancellation notice 35 working days or more 15-34 working days 08-14 working days 04-07 working days 03 working days and less
Cancellation fee per person All tours except those in peak season 50% of deposit Full deposit 50% of tour fare 75% of tour fare Full tour fare
Tour in peak season Full deposit 50% of tour fare 75% of tour fare Full tour fare Full tour fare
2.3 The above cancellation fees apply if the air-tickets are not issued. If the air-tickets are issued, the value of the air-tickets will be added onto the cancellation fees. If the deposit amount is insufficient to cover the cancellation fee, the Customers must pay for the difference. 2.4 Working days refers to Monday to Friday excluding public holidays. Peak season refers to school holidays and public holidays. 3. CANCELLATION BY THE COMPANY 3.1 The Company acts as an agent for service suppliers. After deposit or full payment has been made, all arrangements are still subject
to final confirmation by service suppliers. At times due to low subscription for a group tour, the Company may choose to cancel the entire tour fourteen (14) days prior to departure. 3.2 The Company shall also not be held liable for any contingent costs incurred by the Customer arising from the cancellation. 4. REFUND POLICY 4.1 No refund will be made with respect to accommodation, meals, sightseeing tours or any other services included in the tour fare but not utilised by the Customer, either in part or full, or when the Customer amends, cancels or otherwise changes any arrangements after commencement of the tour. 4.2 All refund will be made within fourteen (14) working days in a form of cheque. For credit card payment, refund will be made through the credit card company. 4.3 Air tickets with refund value will only be refunded to Customers four (4) to six (6) weeks after the respective airlines have refunded to the Company. The standard processing period for air tickets refund varies from three (3) to six (6) months (subject to individual airlines). 4.4 During peak period, the refund process may be longer due to increase in transactions. 5. AMENDMENT TO BOOKINGS (REQUESTED BY PASSENGERS) 5.1 For any changes in departure date or tour type, cancellation charges apply as listed under Section 2 on Cancellation by the Customer. 5.2 For every request made regardless of whether any previous amendment was confirmed by airlines, hotel or otherwise, there will be a minimum fee of $150 per person per amendment. This does not include any other fees imposed by the airlines, ground operator or hotel. 5.3 A postponement of tour by Customers for any reason is a cancellation. Under such circumstances, the above Cancellation Policies will apply accordingly. 6. AMENDMENT TO TOUR ITINERARY BY COMPANY 6.1 The Company makes reasonable effort to avoid changes in the itinerary. However, the Company reserves the right to make minor changes at any time due to unforeseen circumstances, especially during peak periods or in the event of other circumstances beyond our control. 7. EXTENSION OF STAY / DEVIATION 7.1 Extension of stay may be permitted at the end of tour, subject to the restriction of the air ticket, seat availability and hotel confirmation prior to the commencement of the tour. All requests must be made before issuance of air tickets. If the extension of stay / deviation is unable to be confirmed three (3) weeks prior to the group’s departure date, the passenger is deemed to stick to the original tour schedule. In the event that the original schedule has been changed by the Company, any extra cost will be borne by the Customer. 7.2 Cancellation fee is also applicable if the Customer cancels the booking due to extension / deviation is unable to confirm prior to departure. 8. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, TRAVEL INSURANCE & TRAVEL VOUCHERS 8.1 Passport and other Travel Documents It is Customer’s sole responsibility to ensure that he / she has a valid passport with minimum six (6) months validity from the date of scheduled return to Singapore, as well as the necessary visas, vaccinations, health certificates and
all necessary travel documents as required by various government authorities of the destinations of travel. 8.2 Visa – please refer to our full version Tour Booking Terms & Conditions at www.euholidays. com.sg/tnc*. The Customer may seek advice from the Company on visa application; however it is Customer’s own responsibility to obtain a valid visa. 8.3 Travel Insurance 8.3.1 Arrangement of travel insurance coverage is strongly recommended with respect to unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellation, loss of deposit, baggage, personal accident, injury, illness, etc. Under no circumstances shall the Company be construed as a carrier under a contract for safe carriage of the Customer or his / her baggage and other personal belongings. 8.3.2 The Company shall not be responsible for any loss or damage in relation to trip cancellation, loss of personal baggage, accidents, injuries and illness. 8.3.3 Should there be any amendment to the date and duration of travel, it is Customer’s responsibility to inform the travel insurance company to amend the date and duration of the insurance coverage. 8.4 Travel Vouchers – please refer to our full version Tour Booking Terms & Conditions at www. euholidays.com.sg/tnc* 9. GENERAL MATTERS RELATING TO TOURS For accommodation, special request, baggage, meals, seat rotation and single supplement, please refer to our full version Tour Booking Terms & Conditions at www.euholidays.com.sg/tnc* 10. PRICING POLICIES – for tour fare inclusion, exclusion, child fare and mode of payment, please refer to our full version Tour Booking Terms & Conditions at www.euholidays.com.sg/ tnc* 11. RESPONSIBILITY - please refer to our full version Tour Booking Terms & Conditions at www. euholidays.com.sg/tnc* 12. COMPLAINT & CLAIM Any complaints / claims have to be made in writing within seven (7) days from the date of return. No responsibility is accepted in respect of any complaints / claims which are made after seven (7) days of return. 13. MISCELLANEOUS The Company reserves the right to change, amend, insert or delete any Tour Booking Terms and Conditions containing in this document, as the case may be, without prior notice. The Tour Booking Terms and Conditions complement those terms and conditions contained in the relevant documents provided by third (3rd) party service providers such as airline or cruise tickets, hotel check-ins etc. (Please refer to our website www.euholidays.com.sg/ tnc for the full version of it or request a print copy from our Customer Service Executive)* July 2016
EXPLORE OUR ENTIRE SERIES
ASIA SERIES BY EU ASIA HOLIDAYS
Please approach our friendly staff at any of our sales counters for a copy of these Travel Journals, or visit our website to view the digital version.
BOOK A TRIP WITH
EU HOLIDAYS EU Holidays Pte Ltd
EU Asia Holidays Pte Ltd EU MICE Pte Ltd
T: 6535 8535
E: enquiry@euholidays.com.sg W: www.euasia.com.sg @euasia @euasiaholidays
Chinatown Point 133 New Bridge Road #03-11/12/13/14/16A/18 Singapore 059413 Mon to Sat: 10am – 8.30pm Sun & PH: 11am – 7pm
E: enquiry@euholidays.com.sg W: www.euholidays.com.sg @euholidays @euholidays
2 Central Europe | EU Holidays
Chinatown Point 133 New Bridge Road #03-12 Singapore 059413 Mon to Sat: 10am – 8.30pm Sun & PH: 11am – 7pm
Vertex #07-46 Tower A 33 Ubi Avenue 3 Singapore 408868 Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm Sat, Sun & PH: Closed
T: 6307 7878
T: 6307 7099
E: mice@euholidays.com.sg
Corporate Ticketing T: 6307 7067
E: corporate@euholidays.com.sg